Banking briefs: Avenue Bank starts 'Shop Local' program

Nov. 19, 2013

Avenue Bank has launched a new “Shop Local” initiative, focused on the economic benefits of supporting local businesses and encouraging consumers to shop locally.

The “Shop Local” initiative includes posters to be displayed in the windows of local businesses, along with an information sheet on the economic advantages of supporting local companies. The first poster is being offered just in time for the holiday shopping season.

The first poster reads: “Shop Local. Support everything that makes Nashville so uniquely, curiously & honestly Nashville.” A version was created for Franklin as well.

“The economic benefits that a community receives from successful local businesses are undeniable, and we hope to lead the charge and spark a grassroots movement to support the very businesses that have earned Nashville national recognition for our unique culture, creativity and charm,” according to Ron Samuels, chairman and CEO of Avenue Bank. “These businesses create jobs, expand our tax base and produce wealth for local owners.”

Local businesses are invited to a series of launch events to receive a promotional kit and learn more information.

Launch events are scheduled from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the following Avenue Bank branch locations:

• Today at Cummins Station, 209 10th Ave. S., Suite 250

• Wednesday at Green Hills, 3823 Cleghorn Ave.

• Thursdayat Cool Springs, Carothers Parkway at International Way.

The bank plans to produce additional posters in 2014 to continue the message of local support.

Wilson Bank & Trust introduces Kasasa

Wilson Bank & Trust has launched a new checking account called Kasasa, which is designed to not only pay interest, but also give customers access to additional freebies as well.

The new Kasasa accounts are free, rewards-based accounts with no minimum balance to earn the rewards or maintain the account. A $100 minimum deposit is required to open the account. The new plan has no monthly service fee, and also offers free online banking and free ATMs nationwide.

In addition to interest payments that can pay as high as 2.5 percent annual percentage yield, the Kasasa accounts will offer programs called Kasasa Cash Back, Kasasa Tunes and Kasasa Saver, which reward consumers with automatic savings, up to 3 percent cash back and $5 worth of iTunes and Amazon downloads each month.